Championing Ambition: Women In Cloud Launches 2023 Cloud Scholarship Drive

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As of 2020, only 14.2 percent of people in the cloud computing industry were women – a number that is not improving. We believe that economic growth should be inclusive, reaching every person, organization, community, and country. And it all starts with increasing access to digital skills.

Women in Cloud recognized the importance of cloud certification in building an inclusive workforce and had the reach, approach, partnerships, and engine to make a meaningful impact. We embarked on a journey to test three hypotheses:

  1. What does it take for women to be job-ready in cloud technologies?
  2. What partnerships do we need to deliver micro-credentials and hands-on learning experiences?
  3. What wrap-around services do women need to succeed, including partnerships with Coursera, universities, and tech companies?

Through our experimentation, we learned that it takes $6,000 to $10,000 to provide the necessary services for women/anyone to be job-ready. However, this approach was expensive and not easily scalable. Determined to find a solution, we reverse-engineered a pathway to access $100K Cloud Tech Jobs.

A Breakthrough: Cloud Certification for $250

Collaborating with the Microsoft and Women in Cloud’s Board of Advisors, we identified what it takes to achieve cloud tech certification and devised a plan to make it possible.

After distributing 3,000 scholarships in just 15 months across 65 countries, we are thrilled to announce a breakthrough – women and allies can now become technically certified on Microsoft Cloud products for just $250.

Launching #WICxCloudScholarship Fund

Led by our esteemed Board of Advisors, the Women In Cloud Scholarship Fund is a collective effort driven by our vibrant community. Our mission is clear: to establish and sustain a fund that will empower women by awarding 1,000 life-changing cloud and AI scholarships. Over the next 24 to 48 months, we aim to raise $250,000 to pave the way for women to excel in the cloud industry, fostering diversity and innovation along the way.

We believe that giving is a calling, and giving smart is a choice. But that’s not all. We made it affordable, tax-deductible, and sustainable. This will allow every individual to contribute to the Cloud and AI Workforce Development and make Tech Industry Inclusive.

This holiday season we are launching an innovative campaign “Hope Rises With Every Donation”

In the boundless digital universe, the cloud is a cornerstone of our technological future. However, not everyone has the opportunity to harness its power. This community-driven campaign aims to empower women by providing cloud certification scholarships.  Our mission is to raise funds to create 1,000 Cloud Certification Scholarships.

We believe Hope Rises with Every Donation.

Be a part of this transformative giving campaign and help us make a difference! Your contribution can be the turning point in someone’s life. For more information, visit : https://www.gofundme.com/f/wicxcloudscholarshipfund

No Donation Is Too Small

That’s why we offer a variety of tax-smart giving options for your 2023 donations to maximize their effect:

Save on taxes and make an impact: Make a $250+ gift and receive a charitable deductions and sponsor a woman to become cloud certified. Plus get invited to become a mentor/advisor.

We invite you to champion a woman’s ambition and pave the way for her to achieve cloud certification. Together, we can create a more inclusive and diverse future in the tech industry.

Donate and Make an Impact Today

Together, let’s champion her ambition and make the tech industry more inclusive and diverse. Join the #WICxCloudScholarship Fund today!

Connect with Chaitra if you want to join the fundraising team.

Your support matters. Let’s create an Inclusive Future. Champion Her Ambition with Cloud Scholarships and Your Mentorships.

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Join Us at Ultimate Partner LIVE | The Americas Summit | Nov 13-15 | Dallas, Texas

We are thrilled to announce our partnership with The Ultimate Partner leadership team led by Vince Menzione to bring forth an unparalleled opportunity for women thriving in the cloud ecosystem. Ultimate Partner LIVE is set to be a game-changer, and we can’t wait for you to be part of this transformative journey when partnering with Microsoft

Unveiling Ultimate Partner LIVE | The Americas Summit

Ultimate Partner LIVE is not just an event; it’s a two-day extravaganza designed to ignite potential, inspire innovation, and build bridges within the Microsoft ecosystem. This in-person, live, and interactive experience aims to guide attendees in landing key FY24 priorities, including Marketplace, SMC Co-sell, and Generative AI Cloud.

Connect, Learn, and Grow

As we gather at the stunning Microsoft Las Colinas Campus in Dallas, you’ll have the unique chance to connect with Microsoft executives across various departments including GPS, SMC, and Marketplace. Engage with partner and industry experts, and rub shoulders with executive partner leaders spanning ISVs, SIs, and CSPs. This is your moment to spark connections and fuel growth within the ecosystem.

Opening Reception: Kickstarting Your Journey

Mark your calendars for November 13th, as we kick off this incredible journey with an opening reception. This is your chance to mingle, network, and set the stage for two days of learning and collaboration.

Day 1: Insights and Opportunities

Prepare to dive deep into market trends and opportunities, best practices for collaborating with Microsoft, and a comprehensive understanding of the FY24 Microsoft Priorities surrounding AI, Co-sell, Marketplace, and SMC. Walk away with invaluable insights and the knowledge you need to thrive.

Day 2: Action and Impact

Get ready to put your learnings into action. Day 2 is all about understanding how to drive impact and find success in partnership with Microsoft. Engage in interactive workshops and seize the exclusive opportunity to pose your burning questions to a panel of seasoned experts during live Q&A sessions.

CHECK OUT THE FULL AGENDA

Meet The Esteemed Speakers

We are proud to present a growing list of distinguished speakers, including:

  • Kevin Peesker, Microsoft President, SMC and Digital Sales, Microsoft
  • Heather Deggans, COO & Vice President, Go To-Market Strategy, Global Partner Solutions – US Microsoft
  • Marc Monday, Vice President, Global Partner Strategy & Alliances, Sage

…and many more! Stay tuned as we continue to update our speaker list.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity.

REGISTER NOW and mark your calendars for November 13-15. We can’t wait to see you there and create sparks together!

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#WICxCLOUDCXOSERIES: Innovation in Store: Retail and Generative AI – Navigating the Future of Retail

Welcome to the #WICxCLOUDCXOSERIES: Innovation in Store: Retail and Generative AI in partnership with Insight, where innovation converges with industry visionaries to explore the future of retail in the era of Generative AI. 

In this groundbreaking summit, we delve into the intricate tapestry of retail transformation, sculpted by technological advancements and evolving consumer demands. As retailers navigate this dynamic landscape, Generative AI emerges as a powerful ally, reshaping the shopping experience from its very core.

Speaker Include:

  • Andrea Perkins, VP, Digital Enablement 
  • Jonna Gage, Vice President GTM & Solutions Marketing
  • Carm Taglienti, Engineer and Portfolio Director
  • Heather Wagner, Sr. Marketing Manager
  • Meagan Gentry, National AI Practice Manager
  • Kristen Call, America’s Senior Industry Advisor Retail Banking and Hospitality

The retail sector is evolving. Here are the 4 trends we see how AI is being considered for adoption and the speakers will be addressing the strategies and solutions that are being adopted.  Join us for this groundbreaking digital #WICxCLOUDCXOSERIES on Friday, October 20th at 10 a.m. PST.  

The Dawn of a New Era

The retail landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace, driven by the synergy of technology and consumer expectations. Generative AI, a trailblazing technology, stands at the forefront of this revolution. Its ability to adapt to consumer preferences and market dynamics is reshaping how retailers operate. From dynamic pricing strategies that respond to real-time market fluctuations to immersive virtual try-ons, Generative AI is not just a tool but a strategic imperative for retailers aiming to stay ahead.

Enhancing Efficiency and Engagement

One of the most significant impacts of Generative AI in retail is the enhancement of efficiency and engagement. Retailers are now able to optimize their resources and operations with unparalleled precision. Inventory management becomes a seamless process, ensuring products are stocked judiciously. Supply chain optimization, a critical facet of modern retail, benefits from the predictive analytics powered by Generative AI, ensuring that products reach the shelves when and where they are needed the most. Customer engagement, the lifeblood of any retail business, reaches new heights through personalized experiences and interactive virtual try-ons, fostering a deeper connection between the brand and the consumer.

 Navigating the Ethical Landscape

However, as we revel in the possibilities, it is paramount to acknowledge the ethical, privacy, and cybersecurity concerns that come hand in hand with this transformative technology. Responsible implementation and ethical guidelines are not just buzzwords but the cornerstone of sustainable innovation. Striking the delicate balance between maximizing innovation and managing risks is the key to harnessing the full potential of Generative AI.

Inspiring Stories of Innovation

In this summit, we are honored to host esteemed panelists and industry leaders who have harnessed the power of Generative AI to gain a competitive edge. Their remarkable stories illuminate the path for others, showcasing how organizations can innovate responsibly. From optimizing resources in inventory management to streamlining supply chain operations and revolutionizing customer engagement, these leaders demonstrate the boundless possibilities Generative AI brings to the table.

Don’t miss out! Register here

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Women in Cloud Presents #WICxESG 2023: Sustainability & AI Digital Summit

Women in Cloud, alongside Accenture, is gearing up for its annual #WICxESG 2023 digital summit, a monumental gathering converging sustainability, artificial intelligence (AI), and the brightest women minds of our generation!

What’s the Buzz?
On October 19, 2023, the digital realm will light up as #WICxESG goes virtual, uniting a staggering 500+ global attendees! This transformative event brings together women leaders, innovators, and advocates to explore the powerful intersection of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) leadership, AI-powered innovation, and the unlocking of community partnerships. Together, we will shape a better world for generations to come.

An experience dedicated to AI Innovation, Challenge, and Conversations

1) Announcing AI CoPilot Pitch Challenge: Witness the future as AI visionaries take center stage, showcasing next-gen copilot solutions built on powerhouse platforms like Microsoft Cloud, AWS, and Google Cloud. With cash, recognition and access on the line, this is innovation, competition, and entertainment at its best!

2) Beyond the Mainstream: Dive Deep into AI’s Potential! Outdo typical platforms! Engage in riveting “Ask the Expert” sessions, insightful keynotes, and panel discussions with the crème de la crème of the industry. Expect knowledge bombs, ESG masterplans, and AI strategies that redefine conventional wisdom.

3) Women in AI Role Model Spotlights: We will spotlight pioneering AI role models who are shaping the future of AI technology through transformative change.

4) Keynotes & Panels: Listen to thought-provoking keynotes and participate in panel discussions featuring industry pioneers and experts who will share unique insights that go beyond what mainstream platforms like ChatGPT and Google can provide.

 

Be Part of the Economic Access Movement!
Learn more and grab your ticket to the future now!

Read the press release here

 

 

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